The federally funded study, led by Chicago-area researchers, will rely on blood or saliva samples to help scientists search for genetic clues to the origins of homosexuality. Parents and straight brothers also are being recruited.
Results aren't expected until next year — and won't provide a final answer — skeptics are already attacking the methods and disputing the presumed results.
Research involving identical twins, often used to study genetics since they share the same DNA, has had mixed results.
Dr. Alan Sanders of Evanston Northwestern Healthcare Research Institute, the lead researcher of the new study, said he suspects there isn't one so-called "gay gene. Still, If there's one gene that makes a sizable contribution, we have a pretty good chance of finding it."
Many gays fear that if gay genes are identified, it could result in discrimination, prenatal testing and even abortions to eliminate homosexuals, said Joel Ginsberg of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association. However, he added, "If we confirm that sexual orientation is an immutable characteristic, we are much more likely to get the courts to rule against discrimination."
There is much less research on lesbians.
Research involving identical twins, often used to study genetics since they share the same DNA, has had mixed results.
Dr. Alan Sanders of Evanston Northwestern Healthcare Research Institute, the lead researcher of the new study, said he suspects there isn't one so-called "gay gene. Still, If there's one gene that makes a sizable contribution, we have a pretty good chance of finding it."
Many gays fear that if gay genes are identified, it could result in discrimination, prenatal testing and even abortions to eliminate homosexuals, said Joel Ginsberg of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association. However, he added, "If we confirm that sexual orientation is an immutable characteristic, we are much more likely to get the courts to rule against discrimination."
There is much less research on lesbians.
recommend
Facebook
Twitter
bookmark 
print
Comments: 33
As for the whole debate over if sexuality is chosen or genetic...........Seriously I never chose to be attracted to the opposite sex it was just what it was. I saw some talk show host once ask some neo-conservative who was saying that homosexuality is a choice..."so how old were you when you chose to be attracted to women over men?"
My fear is as stated above that if they find the gene it will be used inappropriately. But at least these federal funds are going to something other than a study to see if women in thong bikinis are distracting to traffic if they walk around in them on the streets.
(I can spell - sometimes)
Studies haven't proven anything. That's why they're doing studies. What you read was wacko.
It isn't like it's unimportant. It isn't like the topic doesn't touch EVERYBODY!!!!
lol
I am of the mind that it's nobody elses business who sleeps with who, of a concenting age, and sound mind.
I also think it's nobody's busines who marry's who, or divorces who, nor how many times.
It will be interesting to follow. Thanks Peter.
Alas.
and the flipside...
"No but seriously, if it weren't for us FABULOUS gay people the heterosexuals would live in a colourless and non-fashionable world. egad!"
heh-heh ;)